Business Details
19 Years
experience
Trusted Chartered Accountants in Edinburgh
Johnston Smillie is one of the largest independent accountancy firms in Edinburgh, dedicated to delivering tailored financial solutions for businesses and individuals. Our team of chartered accountants and tax advisors combines extensive experience with a client-centric approach, offering services ranging from business planning and payroll management to inheritance tax strategies and cloud accounting. We prioritise long-term relationships through regular communication and face-to-face meetings, ensuring clients receive personalised advice aligned with their unique needs. With a strong reputation in specialist sectors such as equestrian, medical, and property investment, we provide industry-specific expertise to support growth and compliance.Our commitment extends beyond professional services, as we actively engage in community initiatives, raising over 10,000 annually for local charities. Backed by certifications from leading accounting software providers like Sage and Xero, we empower clients with efficient digital solutions. Established in 2007, our firm continues to build trust through transparency, technical excellence, and a focus on delivering measurable value to every client relationship.
Services
Business Accountancy
Tax Planning
Payroll Services
VAT Returns
Cloud Accounting
Inheritance Tax Advice
Company Secretarial
Audit Services
Software Integration
Specialist Sector Accounting
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in Edinburgh's accounting sector
- Our team includes 16 qualified chartered accountants and tax specialists
- We provide tailored solutions for niche sectors like equestrian and medical professions
- We hold official certifications with Sage, Xero, and QuickBooks platforms
- Our client retention rate exceeds 25 years for many business relationships
What people say
Experienced team
Personalized service
Trusted advisors
Sector expertise
Reliable support
Services
Business Accountancy
Our Edinburgh-based chartered accountants provide comprehensive business accounting services tailored to companies of all sizes. From annual accounts preparation to management accounts and due diligence, we ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance. Our expertise spans multiple sectors including property investment, medical professions, and equestrian businesses.
Tax Planning
We offer strategic tax planning solutions for both businesses and individuals, covering inheritance tax mitigation, personal tax optimization, and corporate tax compliance. Our chartered tax advisors help clients minimize liabilities while maintaining full regulatory compliance, with specialist knowledge of Scotland's unique tax environment.
Payroll Services
Our payroll service manages all aspects of employee compensation, from salary processing to PAYE submissions and pension scheme administration. We support businesses transitioning from manual systems to digital platforms, ensuring accurate and timely payments while maintaining compliance with HMRC regulations.
VAT Returns
We handle VAT registration, return preparation, and compliance for businesses of all sizes. Our team stays updated on changing VAT regulations to ensure accurate submissions and help clients optimize cashflow through legitimate VAT recovery opportunities across Scotland.
Cloud Accounting
As certified partners for Sage, Xero, and QuickBooks, we provide cloud accounting solutions that enhance financial management efficiency. Our support includes software selection, implementation, and ongoing technical assistance to help businesses transition from traditional systems to real-time digital platforms.
People
Lea Brash
Director
BA CA qualified director with specialist expertise in business advisory services. Leads Johnston Smillie's corporate client division, focusing on strategic growth and compliance solutions for medium-sized enterprises across Scotland.
Anne Melville
CA Associate
Chartered accountant specialising in personal tax planning and inheritance tax strategies. Provides tailored financial advice to high-net-worth individuals and family businesses throughout Edinburgh and surrounding areas.
Kenny McNeill
CTA Associate
Chartered tax advisor with extensive experience in complex tax investigations and compliance matters. Supports both corporate and individual clients in navigating HMRC requirements and optimizing tax positions.
Portia Ellis
ACCA Professional
ACCA-qualified accountant specialising in cloud accounting software integration. Leads digital transformation initiatives, helping businesses implement Sage, Xero, and QuickBooks solutions for improved financial management.
Gordon Ferguson
Professional Staff
Experienced accounting professional providing technical support for business clients. Specialises in payroll services and compliance solutions, assisting companies with HMRC reporting requirements and payroll system implementation.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide comprehensive services including annual accounts, payroll management, VAT returns, business planning, and cloud accounting solutions tailored to small businesses across Scotland.
Do you specialise in any particular industry sectors?
Yes, we have specialist expertise in equestrian businesses, medical professions, residential property investment, and contractor accounting, with dedicated advisors for each sector.
How can you help with accounting software implementation?
As certified partners for Sage, Xero, and QuickBooks, we offer software selection advice, implementation support, and ongoing technical assistance to ensure smooth digital transitions.
What tax planning services are available for individuals?
We provide inheritance tax planning, personal tax optimization, and self-assessment support, with strategies tailored to individual circumstances and financial goals.
How do you support business growth and expansion?
Through strategic business planning, cashflow management, and specialist sector knowledge, we help businesses develop growth strategies and access appropriate financing options.
What makes Johnston Smillie different from other accountants?
Our combination of sector-specific expertise, long-term client relationships, and commitment to community engagement creates unique value for clients across Scotland.
